Parent Guide > The Plea for Eight Hours

by Terence Powderly 1890

Welcome to the parent guide for this text! Read below to find out about what your child is reading in class and how you can support him/her at home.

This week in class, we’re reading "The Plea for Eight Hours" by Terence Powderly.

In "The Plea for Eight Hours," (1890) labor union leader Terence Powderly makes a reasoned argument in favor of reducing the work day for laborers.

As we read, we will be discussing the theme of Social Change & Revolution as it relates to the text. We are trying to answer this big question :

"How do people create change?"

Ways to support your child:

  • Ask your child about this essay at home:
    • What was "The Plea for Eight Hours" about?
    • What did you learn about Social Change & Revolution?
  • Watch Origin of the 8 Hour Work Day at home with your child.